Did you know there are many health benefits we can receive when we give to others? Studies show that helping others or engaging in altruistic behavior (unselfish regard for others ) can positively impact our lives personally, professionally, mentally, emotionally, physically and socially.
A 2013 study published in the American Journal of Public Health shows that helping others can boost our self-esteem, mood and purpose in life, which in turn supports healthy well-being in a variety of ways.
According to a 2014 article in Huffington Post, here are “7 Science-Backed Reasons Why Generosity Is Good For Your Health”:
- It will keep stress in check. Helping others keeps stress hormone cortisol in check to help manage stress.
- Happiness at work depends on it. Being a team player makes people feel more committed to their jobs.
- It’s beneficial to the greater good. We all benefit from each other’s generosity.
- You’ll enjoy more years of life. Helping others reduces mortality risk.
- It keeps the cycle of “good” going. Thinking about our altruistic behaviors leads to a cycle of giving.
- Your marriage will be stronger. Generosity is a key factor in happy marriages.
- It promotes mental health. We feel better about ourselves when we give to others.
And we can do a lot or a little to derive these great health benefits – one small thing can make a big difference for the giver & the receiver.
Cheers to giving!